If you’re craving a comforting meal that perfectly blends the zest of Mexican flavors with the familiarity of classic pasta, this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender spaghetti noodles swirling through a rich, spiced ground beef sauce, all baked into a bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s as vibrant in taste as it is in color. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone around the table to dig in and celebrate the joyful marriage of two beloved cuisines, promising a satisfying and heartwarming experience each time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring something special — from the savory depth of seasoned ground beef to the creamy tang of sour cream, and the melty, cheesy topping that seals everything with a golden finish. Each component works in harmony to create a casserole bursting with flavor and texture.
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles: Cooked to al dente perfection to give the dish a wonderful bite without feeling mushy.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that uptakes all the taco spices beautifully.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to the meat mixture.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Provides that signature zesty taco flavor, crucial for authenticity.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps simmer the taco seasoning into the meat, creating a saucy consistency.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Brings moisture, tang, and just a touch of heat.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Adds richness and unites all the flavors smoothly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Infuses the casserole with creamy tang that balances the spices.
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts gorgeously on top and inside, delivering cheesy indulgence.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor note in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the taste.
- Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (optional): Perfect fresh garnishes to brighten and spice up each serving.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy cleanup and keeps the casserole from sticking.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to make sure your casserole will slide out effortlessly after baking. While the oven warms, cook your spaghetti in salted boiling water until it reaches that ideal al dente texture — firm but tender — then drain and set it aside to wait for the flavorful mix.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onions have softened nicely, about six to eight minutes. This step is critical because it builds the savory foundation of your casserole. Once browned, drain the excess fat for a cleaner, richer flavor.
Step 3: Infuse with Taco Seasoning and Simmer
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the water, stirring well to coat every bit of beef and onion with that irresistible Mexican spice. Let this simmer gently for two to three minutes to let the flavors marry. Next, add your undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce, and allow the mixture to simmer another two to three minutes to thicken slightly and deepen the taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Creamy Elements
In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with the taco-flavored beef mixture. Stir in the sour cream, one cup of the shredded cheese, salt, and black pepper thoroughly until everything is evenly combined. This creamy blend elevates the texture and balances the spices with a subtle tang.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the combined mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is piping hot and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up each hearty serving, scatter some freshly chopped cilantro and a few sliced jalapeños on top. These fresh, spicy garnishes not only add a pop of color but also complement the richness of the casserole, adding layers of fresh flavor and a welcome kick.
Side Dishes
Serve this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe alongside a simple green salad dressed with lime and olive oil or some homemade guacamole to infuse creamy freshness. Cornbread or tortilla chips also work beautifully, giving the meal a delightful tex-mex twist with crisp textures that contrast the creamy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions in small individual ramekins so everyone gets their own personalized casserole. You can also layer it with additional toppings like black olives, diced avocado, or even a dollop of salsa for vibrant flavor bursts. The visual pop and personalized touches always make this dish a hit at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe keeps incredibly well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors only deepen overnight, making leftovers every bit as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for up to two months by tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil or using a freezer-safe container. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the textures balanced and avoid sogginess.
Reheating
To enjoy your leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes if refrigerated or slightly longer if previously frozen. Adding a few extra minutes ensures that cheesy top layer gets melty again.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or a mix of beans and vegetables, then follow the rest of the recipe as is for a delicious vegetarian take on the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe.
Is it possible to use different pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti is classic here, any sturdy pasta shape like penne or rotini will work wonderfully and hold up well to the rich taco sauce.
How spicy is this casserole?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the taco seasoning and green chilies, but it can be easily adjusted by swapping out mild for hot taco seasoning or adding more jalapeños if you like things fiery.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You sure can! Assemble the casserole up to the baking stage and store it covered in the fridge. Add about 10 extra minutes to the bake time when ready to serve, so it’s hot all the way through.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
A Mexican cheese blend works beautifully because it melts well and offers a perfect balance of mild and slightly tangy cheeses, but feel free to experiment with cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor and spice.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together fun family flavors in a cozy, cheesy bake. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just craving a new spin on taco night, this dish is sure to become a staple. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly tasty and comforting dinner can be!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious fusion of classic taco flavors with comforting baked pasta. Featuring ground beef seasoned with taco spices, mixed with spaghetti noodles, creamy sour cream, and melted Mexican cheese blend, this casserole is a perfect easy weeknight dinner with a spicy kick and a cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Meat Mixture
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Garnishes
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Sliced jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and prep dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti noodles until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and onions are softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add seasoning and simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and 1/2 cup water, coating the beef evenly. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the flavors meld, then stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce. Continue simmering for another 2 to 3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti noodles with the meat mixture, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with melted cheese on top.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful taco spaghetti casserole!
Notes
- For extra heat, use hot taco seasoning or substitute pepper jack cheese in place of the Mexican cheese blend.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. If baking from chilled, add an additional 10 minutes to the bake time to ensure it heats through.
